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CZ-Mail - February 2025

The monthly email newsletter from the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM).

Welcome to CZ-Mail, the monthly electronic newsletter from the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM). Each issue provides information on major CZM initiatives, available tools and publications, upcoming workshops and events, grants, contracting opportunities, job openings, and other news of interest to people working on coastal issues. Additional information about CZM’s programs, publications, and other coastal topics can be found on the CZM website. To subscribe to CZ-Mail, send a blank email (please be sure that the email is completely blank, with no signature line) to join-env-czmail@listserv.state.ma.us. Also, feel free to share CZ-Mail with colleagues and friends—and if you have any suggestions for future editions or would like to make a change to your subscription, email your request to CZ-Mail@mass.gov. For periodic updates from CZM between CZ-Mail editions, follow us on Twitter/X.

All links on this web page were current and working on the date of publication.

Highlights

Upcoming Coastal Resilience Grants - Pre-Application Support Available from CZM - CZM anticipates the release of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Request for Responses (RFR) for the Coastal Resilience Grant Program in the spring. Coastal Resilience Grants provide funding and technical assistance to coastal communities, eligible nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes to reduce risks associated with coastal storms, flooding, erosion, and sea level rise through innovative and transferable local and regional projects. The following CZM support is available for this grant program:

  • Direct Support - Up until the RFR is released, CZM can discuss project ideas and eligibility for the grants with potential applicants. See the Coastal Resilient Grant Program contact information to connect with CZM.
  • Coastal Resilience Grant Program Webinar - On February 27 from 11:00 a.m.-noon, CZM will host an informational webinar on the FY 2026 Coastal Resilience Grant opportunity. The webinar will cover new program requirements, highlight successful projects funded in previous grant rounds, and review the grant program goals, timeline, and tips for developing competitive applications, while also providing time for questions and discussion of potential project ideas. Please email india.j.mackinson@mass.gov to register and receive the Zoom meeting details. A recording of the presentation will be linked from the Coastal Resilience Grant Program web page following the webinar.

Public Listening Sessions to Be Held on the Mass Leads Act - On November 20, 2024, the Mass Leads Act (Ch. 238 of the Acts of 2024) was signed into law by Governor Maura Healey. The law directs the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), in consultation with CZM, to “complete a review of existing Designated Port Area (DPA) criteria and use restrictions and update relevant regulations based on the results of the review.” 

MassDEP and CZM will hold virtual listening sessions on February 11 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to receive public input concerning the following criteria listed in Section 295 of the Act:

(A) the protection of traditional maritime industrial activities; (B) the addition of allowable uses consistent with future maritime industrial uses and clean energy activities; (C) the reevaluation of compatible uses within designated port areas; (D) a requirement, to the extent feasible, that all traditional and new allowed uses be resilient to coastal flood damage; (E) examining the feasibility of creating working port easements to purchase development rights from landowners in designated port areas; (F) opportunities to create grants and revolving loan funds to update port infrastructure, including conversion from 1 designated port area use to another designated port area use; (G) consideration of coastal flood resilience for inland neighborhoods; and (H) an assessment of new and adjacent areas that could be added to designated port areas to reduce net loss of acreage;

For additional information and registration instructions, see the MassDEP notice.

CZM and Partners Move Forward with Four Coastal Habitat Restoration Projects - In 2023 and 2024, CZM and partners were awarded $9 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Coastal Zone Management Habitat Protection and Restoration Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) Competition for projects in Manchester-by-the-Sea and Truro (see the 2023 press release) and Yarmouth and Bourne (see the 2024 press release). CZM and partners have been working together to advance these projects across various stages of planning, design, and implementation. On January 17, CZM attended a site visit for the Pamet River Restoration Project in Truro (see Tweets/X postings), which aims to restore 120 acres of the Pamet River salt marsh system through systematic replacement of undersized culverts at five locations. The awarded funds have enabled project partners to advance needed modeling and design work to support future infrastructure upgrades and hydrologic restoration. CZM is also working closely with partners at the Sawmill Brook Restoration Project in Manchester to prepare for the first phase of implementation, expected this fall. The project will restore tidal flow and salt marsh habitat and improve fish passage in Sawmill Brook and Central Pond, as well as stabilize the shoreline to protect critical infrastructure. For the Puritan Bog Restoration Project, the first public meeting was held in Bourne at the end of January. This project will continue efforts to restore a former cranberry bog to support 15 acres of wetland habitat and future marsh migration. At the meeting, Bourne residents and other members of the public watched a presentation about the proposed restoration alternatives and could then ask questions and provide input on the direction of the project. CZM also attended a project kickoff meeting and site visit for the Upper Bass River Restoration Project in Yarmouth (see Tweets/X postings), which aims to restore 57 acres of former cranberry bogs in the headwaters of one of the largest coastal rivers on Cape Cod. CZM is excited to continue the critical work of protecting and restoring coastal habitats with project partners and supporting communities to improve ecosystem and coastal resilience.

EEA Releases the 2024 Year in Review Report - On January 10, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) released the 2024 Year in Review, a report that highlights key milestones and accomplishments from EEA agencies, including CZM. Over the past year, EEA worked collaboratively with partners across the state to build healthier and more sustainable communities. Some highlights include Governor Healey’s signing of a landmark climate bill, work to advance clean energy, efforts to secure more than $1 billion in federal funding for climate initiatives, and more than $240 million of grant awards to 1,545 individual grantees for impactful work across the state, including over $75 million in grants to fund inland and coastal municipal climate resilience projects. EEA also launched its first Environmental Justice (EJ) Strategy, Language Access Plans, and Public Involvement Plans to advance environmental justice and equity in its programs, policies, and regulations. See the 2024 End of Year Report (PDF, 47 MB) to download a copy and the press release for additional information.

CZM Coastal Resilience Grant-Funded Project Highlighted in Published Journal Article - The House of the Seven Gables Director of Preservation and Maintenance, Paul Wright, Curator of Collections Susan Baker, and Salem State University Geography and Sustainability Department Professor Emeritus Steven S. Young, published “Preserving History: Assessments and Climate Adaptations at the House of the Seven Gables in Salem, Massachusetts, USA” in the January 15, 2025 Special Issue Climate Change Challenges for Heritage Architecture of the journal Atmosphere. The House of the Seven Gables has stood on Salem’s coast for over three centuries, and its campus constitutes its own national historic district on The National Register of Historic Places. Climate change impacts, particularly increasing water, now threaten the campus. The article details how the Gables worked with multiple stakeholders to create a climate adaptation plan that focuses on the balanced goals of preservation, cost, and long-term effectiveness to ensure a resilient future for the site. The effort was supported through a CZM FY 2023 two-year Coastal Resilience grant of approximately $510,000 and included technical assistance by CZM staff. The article provides links to the project team’s work and the entire adaptation plan.

New Boater Education Law Requires Training for all Motorized Vessel Operators - The Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) is informing the public about the new Hanson-Milone Boater Safety Act set to take effect on April 1, 2026. This law requires boater education for all motorized vessel operators in Massachusetts, aligning state boating regulations with U.S. Coast Guard safety standards to ensure that every boater is equipped with necessary knowledge and safety skills. MEP is working to raise awareness and provide resources to help boaters prepare for the upcoming changes. Motorized vessel operators will be required to complete an approved boating safety education course by April 2026 that covers safe vessel operations—including navigation rules, emergency procedures, and environmental protections—and proof of education will be required for boating in Massachusetts waters. See the Boat Safety Certificate Course web page for details, along with the press release announcing the public information efforts.

Grants/Funding/Proposal Opportunities

Coastal Resilience Grants - CZM anticipates the release of the FY 2026 RFR for the Coastal Resilience Grant Program in the spring. These grants provide funding and technical assistance to coastal communities, eligible nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes to reduce risks associated with coastal storms, flooding, erosion, and sea level rise through innovative and transferable local and regional projects. CZM will host an informational webinar on the Coastal Resilience grant program on February 27 from 11:00 a.m.-noon. See Upcoming Coastal Resilience Grants - Pre-Application Support Available from CZM at the beginning of this CZ-Mail for additional details.

FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants - The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has announced the availability of funding through these Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs:

These federally funded grants provide billions of dollars in funding to reduce or eliminate the loss of life and property due to natural hazards. The first step in applying for these programs is to complete a “Statement of Interest (SOI),” which can be found on the MEMA website at: Statement of Interest (for Construction Projects) and Statement of Interest (for Capability & Capacity Building, Planning, and Advance Assistance).

For an overview of these funding sources, listen to the January 28 briefing on the Hazard Mitigation Technical Assistance and Webinars/Briefings web page. Interested applicants should register on the FEMA Grants Outcomes (GO) application portal as soon as possible. Statements of Interest are due by February 10, draft Benefit Cost Analyses are due for construction projects by February 24, and full applications for these grant programs are due to MEMA through the FEMA GO web portal by March 10 (for additional details on applying for these grants through FEMA GO, see this FEMA web page). Email mitigation@mass.gov with questions.

Drinking Water Supply Protection Grants - EEA’s Division of Conservation Services (DCS) is seeking applications for the Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to public water systems and municipal water departments to purchase land or interests in land for the protection of existing Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) approved public drinking water supplies, planned future public drinking water supplies, or groundwater recharge. Grants of up to $350,000 are available. See the application instructions for details. Applications are due by March 7 at 3:00 p.m.

Landscape Partnership Grants - DCS is seeking Landscape Partnership Grant Program applications for conservation projects that protect 100-500 acres of land through partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies and nonprofit organizations. Grants up to $1,250,000 will be available this grant round. Applications are due by April 3 at 3:00 p.m. See the application instructions for additional details.

Massachusetts Dredging Program Grants - The Executive Office of Economic Development is seeking proposals for the FY 2026 grant round of the Massachusetts Dredging Program. One-year construction grants for saltwater dredging will be competitively awarded with a focus on shovel-ready projects that contribute to the economic vitality, vibrant waterfronts, maritime safety, or ecosystem health of the Commonwealth’s harbors. This grant opportunity is also open for the purchase of regional dredging equipment, with a focus on new purchases that increase regional capabilities in Massachusetts harbors. All 78 Massachusetts coastal municipalities are eligible to apply, as well as any public commissions representing two or more of these municipalities, including county commissions. Applications are due by March 21 via electronic submission. See How to Apply for application instructions.

Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grants - The Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) will soon seek proposals from Massachusetts municipalities for the Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grant Program to replace undersized, perched, and/or degraded culverts in areas with high ecological value with new structures that meet environmental design and structural standards along with flood resiliency criteria. Only projects that meet the goals of the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards (PDF, 2 MB) are eligible. The Request for Responses is expected to be released later this month. Applicants are strongly encouraged to stay tuned to the program web page for recorded grant briefings and other technical resources on these grants.

SNEP Restoration Capital Mini-Grants - The Southeast New England Program (SNEP), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 1 and Restore America’s Estuaries, is seeking requests of $1,000 to $10,000 for Restoration Capital Mini-Grants. These grants will fund direct purchases of equipment and supplies to support the goals of the SNEP Strategic Plan (PDF, 1 MB), including clean water, healthy ecosystems, and sustainable communities in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. Eligible organizations include municipalities, nonprofit organizations, tribes, state agencies, regional planning organizations, and academic institutions. Applications will be reviewed and funded on a rolling basis beginning on March 3.

Regional Resiliency and Vulnerability Assessments for Ocean and Coastal Acidification - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ocean Acidification Program is seeking proposals for collaborative projects that synthesize social science data and information on ocean and coastal acidification and impacts on human communities at a regional scale. Contingent on funding, up to six projects will receive approximately $100,000-$400,000 per year per proposal, for up to three years, with up to $3 million expected to be available to support the first year of projects. Projects will have a September 1 start date. For details, see Grants.gov. Proposals are due by March 5.

Transformational Habitat Restoration and Coastal Resilience Grants - NOAA is seeking proposals for $100 million in available Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for transformative habitat restoration and coastal resilience projects between $750,000 and $10 million per award. Projects selected will have a transformative impact for coastal communities and tribes across the country, such as helping to sustain U.S. fisheries, making significant impact toward the recovery of threatened and endangered species, protecting coastal communities and ecosystems from the impacts of climate change, building living shorelines that protect coasts from erosion and sea level rise, and more. Fifteen percent of available funding is specifically available to U.S. federally recognized tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, and organizations that represent tribes through formal legal agreements. For more information, including details on upcoming applicant webinars, see the Transformational Habitat Restoration and Coastal Resilience Grants web page. Applications are due by April 16.

Coastal Habitat Restoration and Resilience Grants for Tribes and Underserved Communities - NOAA is seeking proposals for $20 million in available Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for projects that will advance the coastal habitat restoration priorities of tribes and underserved communities. This funding will support capacity-building and restoration activities that enhance resilience to climate change. Funding requests between $75,000 and $2 million will be accepted, and 15 percent of available funding is specifically available to U.S. federally recognized tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, and organizations that represent tribes through formal legal agreements. Remaining funding is available to all eligible applicants to support opportunities for tribes and underserved communities for coastal habitat restoration activities. For more information, including details on upcoming applicant webinars, see the Coastal Habitat Restoration and Resilience Grants for Tribes and Underserved Communities Fisheries web page. Applications are due by May 12.

MIT Sea Grant Core Request for Proposals - The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sea Grant Program is seeking proposals from Massachusetts research scientists to address marine issues such as sustainable seafood, climate impacts to oceans and coastal environments, marine debris, decarbonization, ocean engineering, and biotechnology through their Core Request for Proposals (RFP). Funding requests up to $170,000 per year for a maximum two years will be accepted, with a 50 percent non-federal match required. Preproposals are due by February 18.

Nantucket Biodiversity Initiative Small Research Grants - The Nantucket Biodiversity Initiative is seeking proposals for the Small Research Grants Program, which funds general biodiversity research and climate change and resilience projects that expand knowledge of understudied taxonomic groups and the overall biodiversity of Nantucket, Tuckernuck, and/or Muskeget Islands. Grants up to $3,500 will be awarded. Proposals are due by February 27.

Reminders - This opportunity, listed previously in CZ-Mail, is still open:

  • Restoring Fish Passage through Barrier Removal Grants - NOAA Fisheries is seeking proposals for two grant opportunities under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act to fund locally led fish passage projects that will remove in-stream barriers, such as dams. Up to $75 million in funding is available for the Restoring Fish Passage through Barrier Removal Grants to reopen migratory routes and restore access to better fish habitats, with proposals due by February 10. Also, up to $20 million is available for the Restoring Tribal Priority Fish Passage through Barrier Removal Grants for fish passage and tribal capacity building, with proposals due by February 27. For questions from applicant webinars and application details, see each respective grant web page.

Online Tools and Resources

MEPA e-Filing Portal - In January, the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) Office launched the e-Filing Portal, which can be used to submit Environmental Notification Forms, Notices of Project Change, and Environmental Impact Report filings. MEPA e-Filing will be mandatory starting July 1 and the MEPA Office encourages those who regularly file with MEPA to begin using the new system as soon as possible. See the MEPA eFiling Portal User Guide (PDF, 5 MB) for additional information. For questions regarding MEPA e-Filing, please contact MEPA-IT@mass.gov.

Cape Cod State of the Waters 2024 Report - The Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) has released State of the Waters: Cape Cod 2024, an annual online report that provides a comprehensive look at the water quality of Cape Cod’s estuaries, ponds, and drinking water.

Online Teaching Tool on the Toxics Release Inventory - EPA has developed a new online resource to help students in grades 8-12 learn about the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI). Called TRI in the Classroom, this tool includes materials to help students learn about toxic chemical releases and potential local and national impacts to health and the environment and covers pollution prevention, environmental justice, and green chemistry topics.

Products/Publications

National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution - EPA has released the National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution, which identifies actions that businesses, academia, industry, nongovernmental organizations, consumers, and federal, Tribal, state, local, and territorial governments can take to eliminate the release of plastic waste into the environment. The strategy also outlines interventions across the plastic life cycle to reduce the U.S. contribution to plastic pollution.

Newsletters and Other Periodicals

Coastal & Estuarine Science News - The sixth 2024 issue of Coastal & Estuarine Science News, the newsletter of the Coastal & Estuarine Research Foundation, includes articles on a living shoreline decision tool that considers sea level rise, a long-term study on the effects of living shoreline installations on aquatic wildlife, and other coastal and estuarine research topics.

DMF News - The latest issue of DMF News, the twice-yearly newsletter of the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF), features articles on a new law to allow efficient and timely removal of derelict fishing gear, DMF plans to use passive acoustic monitoring for Atlantic Right Whales, better management of Atlantic cod, and more.

Massachusetts Lobstermen’s News - The December 2024 Newspaper (PDF, 10 MB) from the Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) includes stories on a $2 million grant from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative Innovation Institute to the Cape Cod Commercial Fisherman’s Alliance to support collaboration, a project to develop cost-effective fishing gear solutions, MLA updates, and other lobster news.

NOAA HabitatNews - The December 2024 issue of HabitatNews, a newsletter of the NOAA Fisheries Office of Habitat Conservation, includes items on available funding opportunities through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a project to restore pocket estuaries in Puget Sound to support chinook salmon recovery, new funding for the GulfCorps program to provide conservation and restoration experience to young people, and other marine fisheries habitat news.

The Sandbar - The January 2025 issue of The Sandbar, a quarterly publication from the National Sea Grant College Program on U.S. ocean and coastal legal issues, includes articles on a federal court ruling on critical habitat designations for two Arctic seal species, a federal court ruling on the Army Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit on finfish aquaculture in U.S. waters, and other ocean- and coastal-related legal issues.

Urban Harbors Institute E-News - The December 2024 issue of Urban Harbors Institute E-News, the newsletter of the Urban Harbors Institute (UHI) at the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Boston, reports on harbor management plans in four coastal communities, a new project funded through CZM’s Coastal Resilience Grants on collaborative planning for managed retreat and relocation, and other news and updates from UHI.

Jobs/Internships

Blue Carbon Program Director - The Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is seeking a Blue Carbon Program Director to lead development and management of this program to create financial incentives for permanently protecting and restoring coastal ecosystems (salt marsh and other coastal wetlands) in coordination with Massachusetts environmental agencies. For more information, see the job posting.

Federal and Trust Budget Manager - DFG is also seeking a Federal and Trust Budget Manager to plan, organize, coordinate, direct, and review the work of professional support staff engaged in federal fund and trust activities at DFG. In addition, this position will play a critical role to support strategic solutions to maximize non-budgetary funding support for DFG. For details, see the job listing.

Ecological Restoration Specialist - Dam Removal - DER is seeking an Ecological Restoration Specialist to serve as a project manager for DER’s Dam Removal Program. This position will provide support for identifying, evaluating, and developing new potential dam removal projects; collecting field data, monitoring, and conducting assessments; responding to technical assistance requests; and grant writing. For more information, see the position posting.

Procurement Specialist - DER is also seeking a Procurement Specialist to conduct essential fiscal tasks and activities and collaborate with staff across DER to increase the scale and pace of ecological restoration across the Commonwealth. Candidates should possess familiarity with relevant state and federal regulations and grant processes and have experience with MMARS and COMMBUYS. For additional details, see the job listing.

DCR Lifeguards - Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is seeking certified lifeguards for DCR pools and inland and ocean beaches. A limited number of free lifeguard and first aid/CPR training courses are available through May for candidates that commit to a DCR position for the summer of 2025. For details, see their Lifeguarding page.

Seasonal Engineering Aides - MassDEP is seeking six seasonal Engineering Aides for the statewide Watershed Planning Program (WPP), which focuses on meeting federal Clean Water Act (CWA) goals. Candidates will be assigned to either the Water Quality Monitoring Section or Nonpoint Source Management Section of WPP and will participate in water quality and ecological field surveys; sampling and analysis of fish, macroinvertebrate, and algae populations and their habitat; laboratory analysis of water quality samples; and office projects to support CWA objectives. For details, see the position posting.

Environmental Analyst - EEA’s Office of Technical Assistance (OTA) is seeking an Environmental Analyst to lead and conduct on-site and virtual technical assistance at designated industry sectors with the goal of facilitating, monitoring, quantifying, and reporting on the adoption of toxics use reduction, pollution prevention, and resource conservation strategies and achievements. For additional details, see the job posting.

Environmental Justice Intern - OTA is also seeking an Environmental Justice Intern to work with the OTA Outreach and Chemical Policy Analyst to help implement OTA’s key agency actions and strategic outreach plan for environmental justice, including creation of an EJ landing page for OTA, procurement of translation services for OTA documents, development of an outreach strategy to increase OTA site visits in EJ neighborhoods and areas vulnerable to climate change, and identification of statewide outreach opportunities to various organizations. For details, see the internship posting.

Chief Conservation and Climate Officer - The Trustees of Reservations is seeking a Chief Conservation and Climate Officer in the Boston office to lead an overall conservation strategy for large landscapes, urban green space, and iconic special places. This position manages the Vice President for Land Conservation and Vice President of Natural Resources, along with a team of technical experts, and will play a role in setting and meeting The Trustees’ strategic goals for conservation, climate, and other key policy objectives. For additional details, see the job posting.

Marine Animal Entanglement Response Specialist - The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS) is seeking a Marine Animal Entanglement Response Specialist to maintain a stranding report hotline and conduct on-call responses for reports of entangled whales and sea turtles. The specialist is responsible for program data processing/management, trainee supervision, communication with the public and maritime community, and administrative tasks. For additional details, see the CCS Employment and Internships page. Applications are due by February 28.

Nantucket Conservation Foundation Positions - The Nantucket Conservation Foundation is seeking applicants for several year-round and part-time opportunities, including Native Plant Propagation Manager, Land Use Manager, Restoration and Stewardship Project Manager, Seasonal Wildlife Field Assistant, and Seasonal Botany/Ecology Field Assistants. For details and application information, see their Employment Opportunities page.

Policy Manager - The Massachusetts Rivers Alliance (Mass Rivers) is seeking a Policy Manager to develop and implement strategies to advance legislative and other initiatives that support the organization’s goals. Duties include writing and submitting legislative testimony, organizing member groups to support policy goals, and visiting Mass Rivers groups across the state to learn about their work. The candidate should expect to register as a lobbyist with the state. The job is based in Somerville and includes some travel, primarily within Massachusetts. For details, see the job listing.

Sea Education Association Seasonal Positions - The Sea Education Association is seeking applicants for two seasonal positions. The Summer High School Programs Coordinator will serve as a point of contact for summer students and staff and will assist with planning and oversight of summer programs. The Program Assistant will support students in the summer program and will be responsible for community development, meal preparation oversight, front-line medical supervision, mental health support, and logistical coordination with faculty and staff. For more information, see their Employment page.

Shark Center Manager - The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy is seeking a full-time Shark Center Manager to run their outreach facility in Chatham. The manager will oversee day-to-day operations, recruit and train volunteers and seasonal staff, assist with development of educational experiences, and manage all events. For details, see the job listing (PDF, 302 KB).

Waterfront Instructor - The Buzzards Bay Coalition is seeking a Senior Waterfront/Sailing Instructor to support the development and implementation of on-the-water programming and vessel management at the Onset Bay Center. In coordination with the Onset Bay Center Manager, the position will coordinate the Center’s activity programs, including summer camps, afterschool programs, adult and family classes, and youth classes. For more information, see their Job Opportunities page.

Groundwork Southcoast Positions - Groundwork Southcoast is seeking candidates for several year-round and part-time opportunities for youth and young adults, including Senior Organizational Director, Climate Resilience Coordinator, Climate Resilience Intern, Green Team and Green Corps Leaders and Members, Community Stewards, and Community Resilience Leaders. For details and application information, see their Employment Opportunities page.

Buzzards Bay Coalition Seasonal Positions - The Buzzards Bay Coalition is seeking applicants for three seasonal positions for this summer: Assistant Coordinator of the Baywatchers Monitoring Program, Salt Marsh Research Technician, and Water Quality Research Technician. For details, including application instructions, see the Job Opportunities page.

Part-Time Lead Educator - The Marion Natural History Museum is seeking a part-time Lead Educator for its Coastal Explorations Summer Program for children entering grades 3 to 6. Two one-week, morning sessions in July and August are currently scheduled. Program topics include vernal pools, food webs, salt marsh ecology, soils, local birds, and more. For more information, see the position listing.

Summer Environmental Educators - The Westport River Watershed Alliance (WRWA) is seeking two Environmental Educators for the summer of 2025 to assist with field trips for public schools, support development of lesson plans and educational materials, and lead outdoor programs for participants ages 5-16. Applicants who are certified lifeguards or those seeking to get certified will receive a salary bump and WRWA will cover the certification fees. These positions range from 30-35 hours per week from June 2-August 15. For specifics, see the WRWA Jobs and Internships page. Applications are due by March 15.

Waquoit Bay Summer Positions - The Friends of Waquoit Bay Reserve, in partnership with the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR), is seeking to fill two summer positions for the Waquoit Bay Summer Science School. The Summer Science School Teacher will co-teach children in grades 2 to 12 in weekly sessions related to estuary ecology from July through mid-August. The Junior Counselor will assist counselors with preparation of daily lessons, activities, and games; model appropriate behavior with campers to promote a safe environment; and participate in activities and help with set-up and clean-up each day. For details, see their Employment page.

APCC Internships - The Association to Preserve Cape Cod (APCC) is seeking applicants for three internships, including a full-season (mid-May through mid-November) Cyanobacteria Intern, a summer-season (mid-May through mid-August) Cyanobacteria Intern to help monitor cyanobacteria in freshwater ponds on Cape Cod, and a summer Restoration Intern (June-September) to help with the APCC Ecosystem Restoration Program. For details, see the APCC Employment page.

Friends of Chatham Waterways Internship - The Friends of Chatham Waterways (FCW) are seeking applicants for a part-time, paid summer internship for college students studying environmental issues. Intern duties are focused on environmental education and outreach and include water quality monitoring, communications through social media, assistance with outreach events, and support of various FCW Committees. Applications are due by March 31. For more information, see their Internship page.

Graphic Design and Communications Intern - Mass Rivers is also seeking a Graphic Design/Communications Intern to design and develop new marketing and communications content, including an annual report design, brochures, photography, videography, new web pages, marketing content, and social media assets. For details on this three-month, paid internship, see the internship listing.

Summer Environmental Education Internships - The Center for Coastal Studies is seeking applications from college students and recent graduates for part-time summer Marine Education Internships to assist with environmental education programs. For more information, see their Employment and Internships page. Applications are due by March 7.

Woods Hole PEP Program Summer Internships - The Woods Hole Partnership Education Program (PEP) is seeking applicants for 10-week summer internships in Woods Hole for undergraduate students in underrepresented groups in the marine and ocean sciences with a desire to gain practical experience in marine and environmental sciences. The program consists of a four-week course in global climate change and a 10-week research project in Woods Hole. See the preparing to apply web page for more information. Applications are due by February 14.

Reminders - These job postings, listed previously in CZ-Mail, are still open:

Full-Time Positions

Part-Time or Seasonal Positions

Calendar - Individual Events and Announcements

Revisiting Funding for State Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Infrastructure Projects - February 4, webinar presented by the Environmental Business Council of New England (EBC).

National Practice Forum on Nature-Based Solutions - February 4-5, forum on the use of nature-based solutions for hazard mitigation and climate adaptation from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to be held in Irvine, California, with a virtual option.

Northeast Aquatic Biologists Conference - February 5-7, annual conference coordinated by NEIWPCC, in partnership with state members and EPA, to be held in Bartlett, New Hampshire.

12th Annual New England Regional Offshore Wind Conference - February 7, conference sponsored by EBC to be held in Boston, with a virtual option.

Boston Harbor Environmental Education Workshop - February 13, all-day workshop for educators from the Stone Living Lab featuring virtual lightning talks and discussions in the morning followed by in-person collaboration sessions and an activity fair in the afternoon to be held at the Boston Children’s Museum.

6th Annual PFAS Seminar - February 13, event presented by EBC on the state of science and regulatory actions regarding PFAS to be held in Worcester.

2025 American Society for Landscape Architecture Conference—Call for Presentations - October 10-13, annual conference with the theme “Beyond Boundaries” to be held in New Orleans, Louisiana. Presentation proposals are due by February 18 at 6:00 p.m.

Climate Change and Ocean Plastics Documentary Screening - February 22, screening of Rising Up, a new film that documents an advocate’s efforts to uncover solutions to the climate and ocean plastic crisis, presented by the Cape and Islands Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation to be held in Sandwich.

International Erosion Control Conference - February 25-28, annual conference and expo on erosion, sediment control, and stormwater sponsored by the International Erosion Control Association to be held in Richmond, Virginia.

NEERS Spring Meeting—Call for Abstracts - April 24-26, sponsored by the New England Estuarine Research Society (NEERS) to be held in Provincetown, with a virtual option. Abstracts are due by February 27.

25th AEES Meeting—Call for Special Sessions and Abstracts - May 28-30, annual meeting of the American Ecological Engineering Society (AEES) to be held in Athens, Georgia. Special session submissions are due by February 14, and abstracts are due by February 28.

MACC Annual Conference - March 1, conference sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) to be held in Worcester, which will include a workshop by CZM and MassDEP, “Delineating Primary Frontal Dunes,” along with dozens of other offerings.

Meet the MassDEP Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup - March 4, event presented by EBC to provide updates on the bureau’s programs and priorities to be held in Framingham.

5th Annual Ocean and Coastal Resources Regional Agency Update - March 5, webinar from EBC featuring a panel of New England regulators.

High School Marine Science Symposium - March 6, annual symposium sponsored by Massachusetts Marine Educators and Northeastern University’s Marine Science Center to be held at Northeastern University in Boston.

Cape Cod Natural History Conference - March 8, annual Mass Audubon conference at Cape Cod Community College in West Barnstable.

Ipswich River Legislative Breakfast - March 11, event sponsored by the Ipswich River Watershed Association to discuss river issues and provide feedback to state legislators to be held in Middleton. The public is invited; registration is required by March 4.

MEES Conference - March 12, annual conference of the Massachusetts Environmental Education Society (MEES) to be held in Worcester.

Network & Learn: MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple - March 19, event sponsored by EBC to be held in Boston.

Coastal Engineering and Construction Conference - March 21, conference presented by EBC to be held in Natick.

CRWA Annual Meeting - March 27, annual meeting of the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) to be held in Cambridge.

2025 National Watershed and Stormwater Conference - April 8-10, annual conference sponsored by the Center for Watershed Protection to be held in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference - April 9-10, 35th annual conference sponsored by NEIWPCC on “Nonpoint Source Pollution and Clean Water: Perspectives from the Arts, Sciences and Humanities” to be held in Freeport, Maine.

2025 Stone Living Lab Conference - April 16-18, event presented by the Stone Living Lab at UMass Boston with the theme “Nature-Based Coastal Resilience in Urban Settings” to be held in Boston.

80th Annual Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference - April 21-24, conference sponsored by the Northeast Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies to be held in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire.

2025 Earth Day Charles River Cleanup - April 25-26, river cleanup sponsored by CRWA. Registration is required.

City Nature Challenge 2025 - April 25-May 4, a citizen-science opportunity organized by the Natural History Museum Los Angeles County and the California Academy of Sciences held in cities around the world.

Muddy River Cleanup - April 26, annual cleanup sponsored by the Emerald Necklace Conservancy as part of the Earth Day Charles River Cleanup.

41st Run of the Charles - April 27, canoe, kayak, and paddleboard race sponsored by the Charles River Watershed Association. Registration is required.

Stormwater Conference - August 26-28, annual conference sponsored by StormCon to be held in Orlando, Florida.

CERF 2025 Conference - November 9-13, biennial conference sponsored by the Coastal Estuarine Research Federation (CERF) with the theme “Estuaries: Tradition and Transition” to be held in Richmond, Virginia.

Reminders - The following calendar items posted previously in CZ-Mail are still to come:

  • National Working Waterfront Network Conference - February 4-6, annual conference on working waterfronts and ports with the theme “Working Waterfronts: Adapting to Change” to be held in San Diego, California.
  • National Monitoring Conference - March 10-14, 14th National Monitoring Conference sponsored by the National Water Quality Monitoring Council with the theme “Working Together for Clean Water” to be held in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
  • 2025 Gulf of Maine Monitoring & Research Symposium - April 8-9, event for monitoring program coordinators and researchers, data users, and policymakers hosted by the Massachusetts Bays National Estuary Partnership, Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, and MIT Sea Grant to be held in Haverhill.
  • AWRA Spring Conference - April 28-30, conference from the American Water Resources Association (AWRA) with the theme “Development Risks and Challenges Changing Climate Conditions,” to be held in Anchorage, Alaska.

Calendar - Multiple/Ongoing Events

APCC Events - Free virtual events on landscaping, gardening, and more from the Association to Preserve Cape Cod. Recordings of previous webinars are available.

Barnstable Land Trust Events - Programs for children and adults across Barnstable.

Boat Safety Course - Free, in-person course from the Massachusetts Environmental Police held in Commonwealth communities. This course will meet the mandatory boater education for all motorized vessel operators that will be required in Massachusetts beginning April 1, 2026.

Boston Harbor Islands Events - Upcoming events and activities in the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park.

Boston Harbor Now Events - Events throughout the Boston Harbor area.

Buzzards Bay Events - Regional events compiled by the Buzzards Bay Coalition.

Cape Cod Bird Club Walks and Activities - Free birdwatching field trips across Cape Cod.

Cape Cod Field Schools - Multi-day field courses offered by Mass Audubon’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.

Cape Cod Maritime Museum Events - Upcoming events and lectures for all ages at the museum in Hyannis. Links to recordings of past lectures are also posted.

Cape Cod Museum of Natural History Programs - A calendar of events at the museum in Brewster.

Center for Coastal Studies Events - Events across the Cape Cod region.

Charles River Watershed Events - Events throughout the watershed compiled by the Charles River Watershed Association.

Climate Adaptation Webinars - Webinars on climate change, adaptation, and resilience from the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center at the University of Massachusetts Amherst with links to Archived Webinars.

Climate Conversations: Pathways to Action - Monthly webinars from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine on national policy action on climate change. Recordings of past webinars are also available.

Conservation Commission Education - Workshops, webinars, and trainings scheduled across Massachusetts and posted by the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions. See the MACC Complete Education Catalog and Events Calendar.

Ecological Landscaping Events - Webinars, classes, and events from the Ecological Landscape Alliance. Past webinars are available in Webinar Replays.

Evening with Experts Series - Free public lecture series on ecology and native plant landscaping, including recordings of past events, hosted by Grow Native Massachusetts.

Friends of Herring River Events - Upcoming Herring River watershed events in Truro and Wellfleet.

Healthy and Resilient Communities Research Webinar Series - Periodic community resilience webinars from EPA for local decision makers, with links to Past Webinar Recordings.

Ipswich River Watershed Events - Events throughout the watershed compiled by the Ipswich River Watershed Association.

Keep Massachusetts Beautiful Events - Talks and volunteer opportunities across the Commonwealth on litter prevention and cleanup, waste reduction and recycling, beautification and community greening, and environmental education.

Lloyd Center for the Environment Activities - Birding and nature walks and other activities for all ages at the Lloyd Center in Dartmouth.

Marion Natural History Museum Programs - Community and summer programs at the museum in Marion.

Mass Audubon Program Catalog - Programs for children and adults hosted at the following Mass Audubon coastal locations:

MBL Falmouth Forum Lecture Series - Free public lectures at the Marine Biological Lab (MBL) in Woods Hole. Recordings of previous lectures are available.

Moving Towards Preparedness for Extreme Weather Events - Four-part webinar series hosted by the National Adaptation Forum. Information from past forums is available.

Mystic River Watershed Events - Events throughout the watershed compiled by the Mystic River Watershed Association.

Nantucket Conservation Foundation Events - Activities and events across Nantucket.

National Marine Sanctuaries Webinars - Webinars hosted by the sanctuary system. See Past Webinar Recordings for descriptions of and links to previous webinars.

Native Plant Trust Events - Classes, field studies, and webinars across Massachusetts.

Neponset River Watershed Events - Events throughout the watershed compiled by the Neponset River Watershed Association.

New England Aquarium Events - Upcoming events, lectures, and programs at the New England Aquarium. Recordings of past lectures are available on the Aquarium Lecture Series page.

NEWMOA Events - Upcoming webinars and events from the Northeast Waste Management Officials Association (NEWMOA). Past presentations are also available.

NOAA Coastal Training and Learning Resources - A range of training opportunities from NOAA’s Digital Coast. Also see the Training Catalog for links to on-demand resources.

NOAA Planet Stewards Events - Webinars, workshops, and book club sessions from the NOAA Planet Stewards Education Project. See the Webinar Archives for links to selected presentations.

NOAA Science Seminars - Webinars and seminars on science and climate issues from several NOAA partners. Past seminars are catalogued and available.

Nonpoint Source Pollution Technical Exchange Webinars - Periodic webinars from EPA on a variety of nonpoint source pollution topics, with links to previous webinars.

North and South Rivers Watershed Association Events - Event listings on the South Shore.

Northeast Monthly Climate Updates - Free webinars from the Northeast Regional Climate Center to address timely weather and climate concerns. Recordings of previous webinars are also available, along with PDF copies of presentation materials.

Salem Sound Coastwatch Events - Activities and events posted in the Salem Sound region, including the monthly Underwater in Salem Sound 2025 Lecture Series.

Soak Up the Rain New England Webinar Series - Periodic webinars from EPA that highlight innovative ways to address stormwater, with links to Past Webcasts.

Sound in the Sea Webinars - Webinars on underwater sound hosted by the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography. See the Webinar Archives for links to past presentations.

Stone Living Lab Events - Free climate-focused events around Boston Harbor from the Stone Living Lab at UMass Boston.

Trustees Activities - Programs and activities at The Trustees of Reservations properties across the Commonwealth.

Walks & Events in Orleans - Guided walks, programs, and talks from the Orleans Conservation Trust.

Walks, Talks, & Events in Harwich - Birding and nature walks and talks from the Harwich Conservation Trust.

Waquoit Bay Reserve Programs - Activities for kids and adults from the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.

WaterWatch Lecture Series - Lectures on Wednesday evenings through March 5 from the North and South Rivers Watershed Association. All lectures are virtual, except for Trivia Night on March 5 in Marshfield. Recordings of past lectures are available.

Westport River Watershed Alliance Events - Events presented by the Westport River Watershed Alliance.

Other Items of Interest

Planned Coastal Relocation Network - The Planned Coastal Relocation Network is focused on supporting climate and planning practitioners in preparing for community-driven relocation to reduce flood risk and increase climate resilience for coastal communities. The network meets approximately every other month and has an email listserv to share questions, ideas, and resources. It is convened by The Nature Conservancy, Urban Harbors Institute at UMass Boston, Communities Responding to Extreme Weather, and UMass Amherst Extension, with support from a CZM Coastal Resilience Grant. If interested in joining the network, please Ask to Join the Group or email Emma Gildesgame emma.gildesgame@tnc.org.

Boston Stormwater Flooding Survey - The City of Boston is seeking public input for the “Boston Community-Based Flood Resilience and Green Infrastructure Planning” project funded through EEA’s Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness program to determine flooding types and impacts—from stagnant puddles to coastal flooding—to help prioritize green infrastructure projects to reduce flooding. See the Boston Flood Survey page to provide input on past and ongoing flooding in the city.

Gulf of Maine Council Award Nominations - The Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment is seeking nominations for the following 2025 Annual Recognition Awards for efforts in the Gulf of Maine watershed: Visionary Awards recognizing innovation, creativity, and commitment in marine protection; Sustainable Communities Award for a community or a community group embodying sustainable environment and economy; Industry Award for a business showing leadership in ecosystem improvement; Longard Award for outstanding volunteer work; and Susan Snow-Cotter Award for coastal management professionals exemplifying outstanding leadership or mentoring. Nominations are due by February 28.

Marine Policy Fellowships - The NOAA Sea Grant College Program is accepting applications for the 2026 John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program. This one-year paid fellowship matches graduate students studying ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and policy with hosts in the legislative and executive branches or appropriate associations and institutions in and around Washington, DC. Potential applicants are encouraged to notify their state Sea Grant program that they intend to apply to receive assistance with the application process. Applications must be submitted to state Sea Grant programs by February 19.

Ocean STEAM Powered Women Fellowship - Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) and WHOI Sea Grant in collaboration with Sea Education Association are seeking applicants for the Ocean STEAM Powered Women Fellowship (O-STEAM), a week-long, free, residential fellowship in Woods Hole for young women from Massachusetts that are sophomores or juniors in high school. Selected fellows will spend the week of August 10-16 on the SEA campus working with the WHOI Sea Grant Education Specialist, WHOI Researchers, and Program Assistants for a deep dive into ocean research, while also meeting female Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) professionals. The goal is to expose participants to a wide range of marine careers, get them involved with research, and build a network. The fellowship encourages applicants from diverse groups that have been underrepresented in ocean sciences. For more information, join the February 6 online Info Session. Applications are due by March 14.

Mass Audubon Environmental Fellowship Program - Mass Audubon will soon be seeking applications for an Environmental Fellowship Program, a 14-month fellowship that expands early career opportunities for young professionals who have been historically underrepresented in the environmental and conservation fields. Fellows will gain hands-on experience in areas like climate education, bird conservation, and ecological restoration, while building professional connections and helping to bring diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and accessibility to the environmental field. Sign up for email alerts to be notified when the fellowship application opens. For more information, including details on a February 4 Information Session, see the fellowship web page.

Charles River Environmental Watch - The Charles River Conservancy is recruiting volunteers to join the Charles River Environmental Watch (CREW). CREW Stewards monitor and remove litter and invasive plants and report pathway conditions for an assigned section of park along the Charles River. CREW Vegetation Monitors help determine the effectiveness of Conservancy restoration efforts in a section of the Charles River Parks called Hell’s Half Acre. If interested, please submit an application.

Mystic River Volunteers - The Mystic River Watershed Association (MyRWA) is seeking volunteers to help with river and park cleanups, invasive plant removal, water quality monitoring, river herring monitoring, watershed education, and more. For more information on getting involved, see the MyRWA Volunteer page.

Volunteer Water Monitoring - The Neponset River Watershed Association is seeking volunteers to join the Community Water Monitoring Network to help monitor water quality in the Neponset River Watershed. Please contact Sean McCanty at mccanty@neponset.org with any questions.

Lewis E. Kimball Scholarship - The Friends of Chatham Waterways is seeking applications for the Lewis E. Kimball Environmental Scholarship, with up to $3,000 available for upper-level undergraduate or graduate students from Cape Cod or the Islands majoring in environmental studies, marine ecology, or a related field. For more information, see their Scholarships page. The application deadline is March 31.

Science Without Borders Art Challenge - The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation has launched the 2025 Science Without Borders Challenge, an international contest for students and teachers involved and interested in ocean conservation through art. Students are encouraged to create a piece of art that illustrates this year’s theme, “Marine Keystone Species.” Students ages 11-19 are eligible, with scholarships of up to $500 awarded to winning entries. The deadline is March 3.

Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest - Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Programs, Inc., is now accepting creative submissions for the 2025 Ocean Awareness Contest with the theme, “Connections to Nature: Looking Inside, Going Outside.” Students ages 11-18 can work as individuals or as a group, class, or club and submit entries highlighting their unique connection to nature and how being outside makes them feel. Participants can earn cash awards and scholarships. Submissions are due by June 9.

Sea Education Association High School Programs - The Sea Education Association (SEA) in Woods Hole is seeking applications for its 2025 High School Summer Programs. SEA Expedition is a two-week offshore sailing and oceanographic research voyage where high school students and recent graduates get a hands-on science and sailing experience. SEA Pre-College: Ocean Sciences in Woods Hole is a three-week, on campus, college level seminar on oceanography, marine biology, and environmental sciences for rising junior and senior high school students and recent graduates. SEASCape: Ocean Studies on Cape Cod is a two-and-a-half-week, on campus, introductory program on oceanography and oceans and society. SEAQUEST: Critters, Coral, and Conservation is a three-week, online summer seminar program for high school students on coral reefs and climate change.

Watershed Discovery Programs - Registration is now open for the Westport River Watershed Alliance Watershed Discovery Programs for kids aged 7-16 to learn about coastal ecology and explore coastal habitats in week-long summer programs. Also, three-hour, morning drop-off programs are available for children ages 5-6.

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